Pre-Columbian, South Coast Peru, Paracas, ca. 300 to 100 BCE. A magnificent ceramic jaguar effigy vessel extensively decorated with modeled details and post-fired red and golden earthtones as well as white hues against a black ground. The wild feline is presented in a prone pose, the front paws meeting in an almost clapping manner, and the rear feet slightly lifted off the ground, with a beautiful coat adorned by raised triangular white spots in low relief, long incised and painted red and gold striated bands wrapping the rear legs, tracing the body, and terminating at the front paws. He is brandishing a dramatically, fierce visage with leering eyes, gnashing teeth, alert ears, and a snarling snout! Adding another layer of symbolism to the piece, the sculptor also brought life to the tail by having it represent a sinuous serpent! Size: 10.75" L x 8.875" H (27.3 cm x 22.5 cm) Jaguar imagery symbolized power and might throughout the Pre-Columbian world; hence, warriors, rulers, hunters, and shamans alike associated themselves with this king of beasts, the largest and most powerful feline in the New World. Snakes/serpents provide a fascinating element of Pre-Columbian iconography, as they were regarded to be a beneficial source of nourishment and at the same time quite deadly with their poisonous venom. Also important to the indigenous was the fact that snakes shed their skin annually, thus rejuvenating themselves and serving as symbols of renewal and good health. This piece has been tested using thermoluminescence (TL) twice - by QED Laboratoire and Artemis Testing Lab. According to both tests, the piece has been found to be ancient and of the period stated. A full report will accompany purchase. Provenance: ex-Ramón Alonso collection, Spain, acquired in the mid 1960s, then through descent upon his death in 1976 All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids. We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience. #137317